WHAT IS CHRONIC TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM (CTE)?
Chronic Telogen Effluvium, or CTE, is a type of hair shedding condition characterised by ongoing, excessive hair loss over an extended period. People with CTE notice that they are shedding more hair than usual each day, although the amount can vary significantly. On some days, more than 400 hairs may be lost, while on others only 30–40 hairs are shed. Shedding occurs across the entire scalp but is often more noticeable in the temples
Common signs include finding large amounts of hair in brushes, on clothing, on the desk or computer, in shower drains, or in vacuum cleaners. Some individuals also experience scalp discomfort, such as tingling or pain, a symptom known medically as trichodynia.
WHAT TESTS WILL BE NEEDED TO DIAGNOSE CHRONIC TELOGEN EFFLUVIUM?
Our expert trichologist Donia Maria Messeh may recommend a series of blood tests to check for any nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances or any other correctable causes of hair shedding.
In some cases, a scalp biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
You may be asked to complete a “5 day Hair Collection” (link) at home, which involves gathering shed hairs over a set of 5 days to help evaluate the extent and pattern of shedding.
WHAT TREATMENT OPTIONS ARE AVAILABLE FOR CTE?
There is currently no cure for Chronic Telogen Effluvium (CTE). Treatment focuses on reducing excessive shedding and supporting healthy hair growth. Common approaches include topical 5% minoxidil applied daily, L-lysine supplements (500 mg twice daily), and in some cases low-level laser therapy or Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments.
Nutritional support, such as vitamins and iron supplementation, may also be recommended when deficiencies are suspected.
At Donia Maria Clinic, each treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs, taking into account your medical history, scalp health, lifestyle, and personal goals.
The long-term outlook for CTE is generally positive. Individuals with CTE do not go bald, and while increased shedding can persist for many years, it eventually stops—though the reason for this is not fully understood. If no other hair loss condition develops during this time, hair density typically returns to its original level once shedding resolves.
WHY VISIT DONIA MARIA CLINIC TO TREAT YOUR CTE?
Expert trichologist Donia Maria Messeh is a highly respected trichologist and scalp specialist with over 15 years of clinical experience. Specialising in a wide variety of hair loss conditions, our expert Donia Maria Messeh works closely with each patient to truly understand your hair concerns, current hair care routines, and the emotional and physical impact it has on your daily life. Following a detailed assessment, she develops a personalised treatment plan designed to deliver lasting results.
At Donia Maria Clinic, we recognise that hair shedding is more than a hair concern, it is a deeply personal experience that can affect your confidence, identity, and may also affect your daily life. Our approach combines medical expertise with a deep commitment to personalised care.
At the clinic, each treatment plan is meticulously tailored based on the extent of hair loss, age, medical history, and personal goals. Advanced diagnostic tools are used to identify potential contributing factors. DNA testing may also be included, offering valuable insights into each individual’s unique genetic profile and allowing for the creation of truly bespoke, highly effective treatment strategies.
Every consultation begins with a thorough evaluation of the hair, scalp analysis by trichoscopy, lifestyle, medical history, current routines, and emotional wellbeing. We take the time to listen and we take time to identify underlying triggers, whether it being genetic, hormonal, nutritional, environmental, before designing a tailored treatment plan that may include advanced therapies, topical or systemic treatments, and supportive care.
WHAT ARE MY NEXT STEPS?
Book a consultation with trichologist Donia Maria Messeh, who will evaluate your condition and offer treatment options going forward. Click the link below to start the process.